Back problems are a common reason people apply for social security disability. However, it is difficult to get the Social Security Administration (SSA) to approve the application. That is because most back claims are based on pain, and pain is subjective. SSA evaluates most claims by looking at objective signs and symptoms, functional limitations and the applicant’s credibility. Applicants have to prove that back symptoms are based on medical evidence. Acceptable forms of evidence include:
1. X-rays
2. Discography or Myelograms
3. CT Scan or MRI
4. An EMG
Hire a Disability Attorney in Missouri if you are making a back claim. Grundy Disability Group LLC has many experienced attorneys. Visit their website to find more information about appointments.
Functional limitations are things that a person can’t do because of a back problem. The more functional limitations one has, the harder for them to work. SSA uses the evidence in a claimant’s file to determine residual functional capacity. (RFC) The RFC is the most a claimant can do on a full-time basis. Serious functional limitations, which must be backed up by medical evidence, result in a claimant receiving benefits. Examples include:
1. inability to walk more than a block without having to take a break
2. being unable to bend or stoop to pick something up
3. not being able to lift or carry more than ten pounds
4. inability to sit or stand for at least two hours daily
5. the need to lay down throughout the day
The Disability Attorney in Missouri knows which back conditions are most likely to get approved. There are three back conditions that are easy to prove and applicants automatically get benefits. First, arachnoiditis is a very painful condition caused by inflammation of the membranes around the spinal cord. Symptoms include pain, weakness and loss of bowel and bladder function. Next, spinal stenosis is caused by the narrowing of the spinal column, putting pressure on the spinal cord. This condition causes pain, numbness and weakness. The final automatic condition is nerve root compression. This may be caused by a bulging or herniated disc or spinal fracture. No matter the disability, all applicants need help from an experienced attorney.
To learn more, visit the Grundy Disability Group LLC website online.
